DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania: Tanzania is finalising feasibility studies and detailed designs to expand the Kibaha Maili Moja–Chalinze road into an eight-lane highway, a key project aimed at reducing congestion and boosting regional trade.
Deputy Minister for Works Godfrey Kasekenya told parliament on Wednesday that the project has been split into two sections. The first section covers a 3.6-kilometre stretch from Maili Moja to Picha ya Ndege, with funding to be mobilised once designs and construction costs are finalised.
“The remaining 78.9-kilometre section from Picha ya Ndege to Chalinze will be implemented through a Public–Private Partnership. Procurement procedures to secure a private partner are underway,” Kasekenya said.
The announcement comes as traffic along the Kibaha–Mlandizi–Chalinze corridor continues to grow, driven by increased cargo and commuter flows following the modernisation of Dar es Salaam Port.
Addressing short-term measures, Minister for Works Abdallah Ulega said the government has allocated funds to rehabilitate the old road from Kibaha Maili Moja to Tumbi and Mlandizi, providing an alternative route when the main highway is blocked. Special traffic units will also be deployed to clear stalled vehicles and manage traffic flow, he added.
On the planned Chalinze–Morogoro Expressway, Ulega said earlier delays were due to terms deemed unfavourable in prior contractor negotiations.
“We re-advertised the project, and several local institutions, including NSSF and TPA, have expressed interest. Government experts are reviewing proposals, and an investor will soon be selected to execute this strategic project,” he said.